Predicting Top 5 MLB Home Run Leaders By End of 2014

Predicting Top 5 MLB Home Run Leaders By End of 2014

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With only one-quarter of the baseball season to go, end of year predictions get a little easier. However, regarding home run totals, a huge question remains. Will anyone hit 40 this season, or will this be the first time since 1982 where no player from either league makes it out of the 30s?

5. Nelson Cruz, Baltimore Orioles

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5. Nelson Cruz, Baltimore Orioles

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At the end of June, Nelson Cruz led the world with 25 homers. It was a feel-good story as Cruz was back after a PED suspension, but it now seems as though his PEDs half-life must've died. After Cruz's torrid start he's gone yard only seven times since the end of June.

Final Cruz home run total: 35

4. Anthony Rizzo, Chicago Cubs

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4. Anthony Rizzo, Chicago Cubs

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Anthony Rizzo and David Ortiz are deadlocked at 28 homers apiece. With second baseman Javier Baez already with the team and outfielder Jorge Soler coming soon, the Cubbies are going to have a fun September trying to shoot ahead of Cincinnati and finish outside the cellar of the NL Central. The energy will be contagious.

Final Rizzo home run total: 36

3. (tie) Chris Carter, Houston Astros

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3. (tie) Chris Carter, Houston Astros

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In Chris Carter's first 55 games of the 2014 season, he batted .192 with seven home runs. Over his last 54 games, he's hit .270 with 20 jacks. Carter is currently sitting on 29 home runs.

Final Carter home run total: 37

3. (tie) Jose Abreu, Chicago White Sox

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3. (tie) Jose Abreu, Chicago White Sox

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Until now, eight games stood as Abreu's longest stretch without going yard in the 2014. He's now gone his last 20 games without putting one in the seats. With 31 homers, Abreu is one behind Cruz and Stanton.

Final Abreu home run total: 37

1. Giancarlo Stanton, Miami Marlins

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1. Giancarlo Stanton, Miami Marlins

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For the first time since 1982, no player from either league will hit 40 home runs. Welcome to the new age of pitching.